The Second Republic

Overview

The Second Republic Overview:

The Second Republic in Nigeria, which spanned from 1979 to 1983, marked a significant period in the country's political history. It emerged after years of military rule following the end of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970. This period was characterized by several challenges and achievements that shaped the political landscape of the nation.

One of the key objectives when studying the Second Republic is to evaluate the challenges and achievements that characterized this era. The challenges of the Second Republic were diverse and multifaceted. They ranged from political instability to issues of governance, economy, and social cohesion. Understanding these challenges is crucial to gaining insights into the complexities of Nigeria's political history during this period.

Among the notable challenges faced during the Second Republic was the struggle for power and control of the central government. Various political parties and factions vied for influence and dominance, leading to intense political competition and conflicts. The issue of revenue allocation also emerged as a contentious topic, with debates on how resources should be distributed among the regions.

Furthermore, the Second Republic saw the resurgence of the minority question, highlighting the concerns of marginalized groups within the country. The 1962/63 census controversies further exacerbated ethnic tensions and fueled distrust among different ethnic groups. These dynamics played a significant role in shaping the political landscape and influencing government policies during this period.

The Action Group crisis and the general elections of 1964/65 were critical events that rocked the Second Republic. The internal conflicts within the Action Group party and the controversies surrounding the elections contributed to the political turmoil that characterized this era. These events had far-reaching implications for the democratic process and governance in Nigeria.

However, the Second Republic also witnessed notable achievements amidst the challenges. The coup d'état of January 1966 and the subsequent establishment of the Ironsi regime marked a turning point in Nigeria's political history. This event had a profound impact on the trajectory of governance and set the stage for future developments in the country.

In conclusion, analyzing the challenges and achievements of the Second Republic provides valuable insights into Nigeria's political evolution and the intricacies of democracy in the nation. By delving into the nuances of this period, we can better understand the factors that have shaped Nigeria's political landscape and governance structures up to the present day.

Objectives

  1. Discuss the Minority Question
  2. Examine the Issue of Revenue Allocation
  3. Investigate the 1962/63 Census Controversies
  4. Analyze the Coup D’Etat of January 1966 and the Ironsi Regime
  5. Evaluate the Causes, Course, and Effects of the Coup
  6. Explore the Action Group Crisis and the General Elections of 1964/65
  7. Analyze the Struggle for the Control of the Centre
  8. Evaluate the Challenges and Achievements of the Second Republic

Lesson Note

The Second Republic in Nigeria began in 1979 and lasted until 1983. It was a period marked by significant political dynamics, social issues, and economic challenges. This era followed the end of military rule which had dominated the country following the Nigerian Civil War. The constitution of the Second Republic was modeled after the United States, establishing a presidential system of government. Though the intention was to promote democracy and stability, this period also encountered several problems that eventually led to another military coup.

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on The Second Republic. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

  1. 1. Which of the following was a major challenge faced during the Second Republic in Nigeria? A. Ethnic and religious tensions B. Smooth revenue allocation C. Strong political unity D. No census controversies Answer: A. Ethnic and religious tensions
  2. 2. What was a key cause of the Action Group Crisis during the Second Republic? A. Successful revenue allocation B. Unity among political parties C. Power struggle within the party D. Lack of minority representation Answer: C. Power struggle within the party
  3. 3. The 1962/63 Census Controversies in Nigeria during the Second Republic primarily revolved around: A. Equitable revenue allocation B. Accurate population data for political representation C. Harmony among ethnic groups D. Irrelevant political issues Answer: B. Accurate population data for political representation
  4. 4. Who led the coup d'état of January 1966 that ended the Second Republic? A. General Yakubu Gowon B. General Murtala Mohammed C. General Aguiyi Ironsi D. General Olusegun Obasanjo Answer: C. General Aguiyi Ironsi
  5. 5. What was a significant effect of the coup d'état of January 1966 on the Second Republic? A. Strengthening of democratic institutions B. Disruption of political stability C. Increased revenue allocation efficiency D. Improved minority rights Answer: B. Disruption of political stability

Recommended Books

Past Questions

Wondering what past questions for this topic looks like? Here are a number of questions about The Second Republic from previous years

Question 1 Report

Who was the leader of the opposition in Nigeria during the Second Republic?


Practice a number of The Second Republic past questions